Dash cluster system and method

ABSTRACT

A dash cluster system and a method for securing and/or interconnecting a dash cluster to power equipment. The dash cluster system includes a housing having a connecting assembly including at least one peripheral connector positioned along a peripheral surface of the housing. The dash cluster system further comprises a bezel having a front side and a rear side. The bezel also comprises a connecting arrangement formed from at least one extending connector, extending from the rear side. The dash cluster system also comprises a securing connection formed between the housing and the bezel by the interlocking of the peripheral connector of the connecting assembly with the extending connector of the connecting arrangement.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application claims the benefit of U.S. application Ser. No.13/218,573, filed Aug. 26, 2011, which claims the benefit of U.S.Provisional Application Ser. No. 61/377,483, filed Aug. 27, 2010 thesubject matter of which are incorporated herein in their entirety.

TECHNICAL FIELD

The present disclosure relates to a system and a method for securingand/or interconnecting a dash cluster to power equipment, and morespecifically, providing a flexible and modular system and method ofsecuring and/or interconnecting components forming a dash cluster topower equipment.

BACKGROUND

Power equipment that includes for example, tractors, lawn and gardentractors, all terrain vehicles (ATVs), marine vehicles, boats, jet skis,and the like are offering more accessories and features as technologyevolves. Such accessories and features include for example, tilt sensingequipment and electronics that measure the inclination of a gardentractor during operation. One example is described in further detail inU.S. patent application Ser. No. 12/686,722 that was filed on Jan. 13,2010 entitled TILT AND/OR ACCELERATION SENSING APPARATUS AND METHOD,which is assigned to the assignee of the present disclosure. TheTILT/ACCELERATION U.S. Patent Application identified above (hereinafter“the '722 Application”) is incorporated herein by reference in itsentirety for all purposes.

As more features and accessories are being offered, the amount ofdisplay modules needed to indicate the various parameters of operationto the operators of the power equipment also increases. Display modulesare typically positioned on the dash panel of the power equipment,conveniently within the operator's viewing area. Display modules caninclude: diagnostic indicators such as pressure, fluid capacity, andtemperature gauges; tilt sensor gauges; pre-heat conditions gauges fordiesel engines; hour meters that track the number of hours the powerequipment is used; rpm and speed gauges; and the like.

Illustrated in FIG. 1 is a perspective view of power equipment 10 in theform of a lawn garden tractor. The tractor 10 includes an instrument ordash panel 12 positioned behind a steering wheel 14 for operating thedirectional control of the lawn tractor, In FIG. 1, the instrument ordash panel 12 includes an ignition switch 16 for starting the lawntractor 10 and display modules 20. FIGS. 2 and 3 are views of a customdisplay module 20 used in the power equipment 10 of FIG. 1 as describedin detail in U.S. Pat. No. 7,777,639 to Young et al., which is owned bythe assignee of the present disclosure. U.S. Pat. No. 7,777,639 isincorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

The custom display module 20 in FIG. 2 includes a bezel 22 and a housing24 that is affixed to the bezel typically by sonic welding. Extendingfrom the housing and/or parts connected from the rear of the housing aresnap wings 26 and 28. Each custom display module 20 is individuallyinstalled and is secured to the instrument or dash panel 12 by passingthe module in the direction of the arrow “A” in FIG. 3 through aspecified opening 30 located in the dash panel. Upon passing of thecustom display module 20 through the specified opening 30, the snapwings 26 and 28 spring outward from a deflected position created duringthe passage of the module through the opening. The snap wings 26 and 28then secure the custom module 20 to the dash panel 12 through theopening 30 by forming a pressure fit against the panel between the wingsand rear face 32 of the bezel 22.

Because the display module 20 is specifically sized to an applicationand has a specified dash panel opening, it is a custom display module.The molding for the housing 24, sizing of the snap wings 26, 28 andrespective stack-ups between the rear face 32 of the bezel 22 and end ofsnap wings must be sized and tooled for each customer application,varying based on the size and type of custom module needed. As a result,cost associated with tooling transferred to each of the custom displaymodules becomes expensive. In addition, the attachment of each customdisplay module is secured primarily by the wings 26, 28 of theindividual module. Therefore, any lapse in tolerance in either themolding or the thickness of the panel can result in loose or weakenedconnections.

SUMMARY

One example embodiment of the present disclosure includes a dash clusterfor use with a dash panel on power equipment comprising a housing havinga connecting assembly including at least one peripheral connectorpositioned along a peripheral surface of the housing. The dash clusterfurther comprises a bezel having a front side and a rear side. The bezelalso comprises a connecting arrangement formed from at least oneextending connector, extending from the rear side. The dash cluster alsocomprises a securing connection formed between the housing and the bezelby the interlocking of the peripheral connector of the connectingassembly with the extending connector of the connecting arrangement.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The foregoing and other features and advantages of the presentdisclosure will become apparent to one skilled in the art to which thepresent disclosure relates upon consideration of the followingdescription of the invention with reference to the accompanyingdrawings, wherein like reference numerals, unless otherwise describedrefer to like parts throughout the drawings and in which;

FIG. 1 is a perspective view of power equipment in the form of a lawngarden tractor;

FIG. 2 is perspective view of a custom display module;

FIG. 3 is a side view of the custom display module of FIG. 2;

FIG. 4 is a perspective view of a dash panel supporting a dash clustersystem constructed in accordance with one example embodiment of thepresent disclosure;

FIG. 5 is an exploded rearward view of a dash cluster system constructedin accordance with one example embodiment of the present disclosure;

FIG. 6 is an exploded forward view of the dash cluster system of FIG. 5;

FIG. 7 is an exploded rearward view of a dash cluster system constructedin accordance with another example embodiment of the present disclosure;

FIG. 8 is an exploded forward view of the dash cluster system of FIG. 7;

FIG. 9 is a perspective rearward view of a dash cluster system mountedinto a partial section of a dash panel in accordance with one exampleembodiment of the present disclosure;

FIG. 10 is a rearward perspective view of a bezel constructed inaccordance with one example embodiment of the present disclosure;

FIG. 11 is a forward perspective view of the bezel of FIG. 10;

FIG. 12 is a front view of the bezel of FIG. 10;

FIG. 13 is a side view of the bezel of FIG. 10;

FIG. 14 is a rear view of the bezel of FIG. 10;

FIG. 15 is forward perspective view of a housing constructed inaccordance with one example embodiment of the present disclosure;

FIG. 16 is a front view of the housing of FIG. 15;

FIG. 17 is a side view of the housing of FIG. 15;

FIG. 18 is a rear view of the housing of FIG. 15;

FIG. 19 is a forward perspective view of a dash cluster systemillustrating the interconnection and securing of a housing with a bezelin accordance with one example embodiment of the present disclosure;

FIG. 20 is a side elevation view of the dash cluster system of FIG. 19;

FIG. 21 is a rear view of the dash cluster system of FIG. 19;

FIG. 22 is a front view of the dash cluster system of FIG. 19;

FIG. 23 is a partial perspective view of a housing constructed inaccordance with one example embodiment of the present disclosure;

FIG. 24 is a partial perspective view of interconnected housingconstructed in accordance with another example embodiment of the presentdisclosure;

FIG. 25 is an isometric view of several interconnected housings;

FIG. 26 illustrates a magnified perspective view of a housing maleconnector constructed in accordance with one example embodiment of thepresent disclosure;

FIG. 27 is a perspective view of a male connector a first housing inproximity to and approaching a female connector of a second housing forinterconnection;

FIG. 28 illustrates a sectional perspective view of two housings forminga securing connection;

FIG. 29 is a flow diagram illustrating a method for securing a displaymodule to a dash panel to form a dash cluster system in accordance withone example embodiment of the present disclosure;

FIG. 30 is a flow diagram illustrating a method for securing a displaymodule to a dash panel to form a dash cluster system in accordance withanother example embodiment of the present disclosure;

FIG. 31 is a perspective front view of a dash panel supporting a dashcluster system of multiple display assemblies in accordance with anotherexample embodiment of the present disclosure;

FIG. 32 is a perspective rear view of the dash panel of FIG. 31;

FIGS. 33 and 34 are rear perspective views illustrating housingsseparated from a single bezel in accordance with another exampleembodiment of the present disclosure;

FIG. 35 is an inner view of the dash panel of FIG. 31;

FIG. 36 is a section view of FIG. 35 along section lines 36-36;

FIG. 37 is a first assembly view of a display assembly constructed inaccordance with another example embodiment of the present disclosure toa dash board;

FIG, 38 is a second assembly view of the display assembly of FIG. 37being secured to a dash board;

FIGS. 39-40 are exploded views of the display assembly constructed inaccordance with another example embodiment of the present disclosure;

FIG. 41 is a side elevation view of the display assembly of FIGS. 39-40;

FIG. 42 is a rear view of the display assembly of FIGS. 39-40;

FIG. 43 is a perspective view of the display assembly of FIGS. 39-40;

FIG. 44 is a first perspective assembly view of a bezel in relation to ahousing of the display assembly of FIGS. 39-40; and

FIG. 45 is a second perspective assembly view of a bezel attached to ahousing of the display assembly of FIGS. 39-40.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Referring now to the figures generally wherein like numbered featuresshown therein refer to like elements throughout unless otherwise noted.The present disclosure relates generally to a system and a method forsecuring and/or interconnecting a dash cluster to power equipment, andmore specifically, providing a flexible and modular system and method ofsecuring and/or interconnecting components forming a dash cluster topower equipment.

Illustrated in FIG. 4 is a perspective view of a dash panel 12. Mountedin the dash panel 12 is a dash cluster system 40 constructed inaccordance with one example embodiment of the present disclosure. Thedash cluster system 40 in the example embodiment of FIG. 4 includes six(6) display assemblies 42 a, 42 b, 42 c, 42 d, 42 e, and 42 f that areinterconnected and secured to the dash panel 12 of power equipment 10such as the riding mower depicted in FIG. 1. Although the dash clustersystem 40 illustrated in FIG. 4 includes six (6) interconnected displayassemblies, the dash cluster system 40 could, have any number and sizedisplay assemblies without departing from the spirit and scope of thepresent disclosure.

The display assemblies 42 of the dash cluster system 40 of FIG. 4include three (3) large size display assemblies 42 a-42 c and three (3)small size assemblies 42 d-42 f. The first display assembly 42 aincludes a liquid crystal display (“LCD”) that allows for multiplealphanumerical character combinations as appreciated by one skilled inthe art. In the illustrated example embodiment of FIG. 4, the displayassembly 42 a is an hour meter. The second and third display assemblies42 b-42 c comprise a needle gauge that is operated electro-mechanicallyby a wire feed or wireless-type signal. The needle gauge displayassemblies 42 b and 42 c in the example embodiment may indicate to theoperator of the power equipment 10, the power equipment's speed, rpmrates, fluid levels, and the like along an incremental scale surroundingthe needle. Alternatively, there could be multiple needles such as foruse as the hands of a clock.

The smaller display assemblies 42 d-42 f comprise any combination ofelectrical, electromechanical, and mechanical diagnostic indicators,such as light emitting diodes (“LEDs”) that illuminate to warn or notifyan operator of a sensed condition of the power equipment 10. Forexample, display assembly 42 d includes five LEDs annularly surroundingthe perimeter of an LCD. The LEDs may light to indicate low oilpressure, low fuel, high temperature, engaged power-take-off, or anyother operating condition or diagnostic that might be useful to theoperator relating to the power equipment 10.

FIGS. 5 and 6 are exploded rearward and forward views, respectively of adash cluster system 40 constructed in accordance with one exampleembodiment of the present disclosure. The dash cluster system 40 of theexample embodiment of FIGS. 5 and 6 comprises a bezel 44, a housing 46,a spacer frame or offset 48, a decal or faceplate 50, gauge components52 (such as a printed circuit board, electric circuit components, chips,electromechanical and mechanical components, LCDs, LEDs, and the like),seals or gaskets 54, and a connecting cover 56. In the illustratedexample embodiment of FIGS. 5 and 6, the components forming the dashcluster system 40 are centrally located about axis X-X. In one exampleembodiment, components 57 positioned in the housing 46 of FIGS. 5 and 6are similarly configured, constructed, operated, assembled, andconnected to as corresponding components are described in U.S.provisional patent application Ser. No. 61/329,732 filed Apr. 30, 2010and non-provisional U.S. patent application Ser. No. 13/097,199 thatclaims priority to the provisional application, both of which areentitled CONNECTION ASSEMBLY. The above U.S. patent applications areincorporated herein by reference in their entirety.

FIGS. 7 and 8 are exploded rearward and forward views, respectively of adash cluster system 40 constructed in accordance with another exampleembodiment of the present disclosure having one or more displayassemblies 42A and 42B. The dash cluster system 40 of the exampleembodiment of FIGS. 7 and 8 comprises bezels 44, housings 46, needles47, spacer frames or offsets 48, decals or faceplates 50, gaugecomponents 52 (such as a printed circuit board, electric circuitcomponents, chips, electromechanical and mechanical components, LCDs,LEDs, and the like), seals or gaskets 54, and connecting covers 56. Inone example embodiment, components 57 positioned in the housing 46 ofFIGS. 7 and 8 are similarly configured, constructed, operated,assembled, and connected to as corresponding components are described inU.S. provisional patent application Ser. No. 61/329,732 filed Apr. 30,2010 and non-provisional U.S. patent application Ser. No. 13/097,199that claims priority to the provisional application, both of which areentitled CONNECTION ASSEMBLY. The above U.S. patent applications areincorporated herein by reference in their entirety.

In an alternative example embodiment as illustrated in FIGS. 7 and 8,the dash cluster system 40 may include one or more shroud arrangements58 integrated into one or more bezels 44. The shroud arrangements 58also include openings 60, 62, 64 flanges 66 or supports 68 to house orsecure various switches 70, dials 72, and electromechanical devices 74as further illustrated in FIGS. 7 and 8.

The bezel 44 of the dash cluster 40 is located on the exterior surface76 of the dash panel 12 visible to the operator in the direction arrow“A” in FIGS. 4 and 9. The remainder of the dash cluster system 40 islocated within the interior area 78 not visible to the operator in thedirection of arrow “B” of FIGS. 4 and 9. The dash panel 12 includes anopening 80 to accommodate one or more display assemblies 42 forming thedash cluster system 40 as illustrated in FIG. 9. The opening 80 in thedash panel 12 is constructed such that it is not large enough to allowthe bezel 44 or combination of bezels 44 joined via one or more coupledhousings 46 to pass through to the interior area 78.

Illustrated in FIGS. 10-14 are various views of a bezel 44 constructedin accordance with one example embodiment of the present disclosure.While the bezel 44 in the illustrated example embodiment of FIGS. 10-14is circular in shape and formed from a plastic material, it could be anygeometrical configuration and formed from any comparable material ofsimilar strength and weight without departing from the spirit and scopeof the present disclosure. The bezel 44 includes a front side 82 that isseen by the operator as it extends away from the dash panel 12 in FIGS.4 and 9. The bezel 44 also includes a rear side 84 that is in contactwith the dash panel 12 in the assembled construction of FIGS. 4 and 9.

Extending from, and molded into the bezel 44 are a plurality ofconnecting arrangements 86. In the illustrated example embodiment ofFIGS. 10-14, the connecting arrangements 86 comprise two (2) maleconnectors 88 and two (2) female connectors 90. The connectors 88 and 90forming the connecting arrangement 86 are substantially equidistantradially (see radial Y-axis in FIG. 14) from the central X-axis (ofFIGS. 5, 6, and 14) of an opening 92 of the bezel 44. However, in theillustrated example embodiment of FIGS. 10-14, the connectingarrangements 86 are asymmetrically located around the inner surface 84of the bezel 44. Stated another way, the connectors 88 and 90 are notlocated at 90 degree increments around the 360 degree perimeter of thebezel 44, but instead three (3) of the connectors are located within 180degrees. This asymmetrical configuration of the connecting arrangements86 in the illustrated example embodiment allows for error proofing whenthe housing 46 is attached to the bezel 44 during assembly. It is theintent however, that any number of male 88 or female 90 connectorsextending from an unlimited number of locations along the inner surface84 is within the spirit and scope of the present disclosure.

Illustrated in FIGS. 15-18 are various views of a housing 46 constructedin accordance with one example embodiment of the present disclosure.While the housing 46 in the illustrated example embodiment of FIGS.15-18 is hexagonal in shape and formed from a plastic material, it couldbe any geometrical configuration having any number of sides or a singlecontinuous or circular side and formed from any comparable material ofsimilar strength and weight without departing from the spirit and scopeof the present disclosure. The housing 46 includes a front side 94 thatis transparent allowing indicia from the decal or faceplate 50 such asan oil pressure symbol, temperature, LCDs and LEDs to be seen by theoperator as it faces outward from the dash panel 12 in the direction ofarrow A in FIGS. 4 and 9, The housing 46 also includes a rear side 96that extends away from the dash panel 12 toward arrow B in FIGS. 4 and9.

Extending from, and integrated along a select number of peripheral sides98 of the housing 46 is a connecting assembly 100. In the illustratedexample embodiment of FIGS. 15-18, the connecting assembly 100 comprisestwo (2) male connectors 110 and two (2) female connectors 112. Theconnectors 110 and 112 forming the connecting assembly are substantiallyequidistant radially (see radial Y-axis in FIG. 16) from the centralX-axis (of FIGS. 5, 6, and 16) of the housing 46. However, in theillustrated example embodiment of FIGS. 15-18, the connecting assembly100 is asymmetrically located around the peripheral sides 98 of thehousing 46. Stated another way, the connectors 110 and 112 are notlocated at 90 degree increments around the 360 degree perimeter (formedabout the X-axis) of the housing 46, but instead three (3) of theconnectors are located within 180 degrees. This asymmetricalconfiguration of the connecting assembly 100 in the illustrated exampleembodiment allows for error proofing when the housing 46 is attached tothe bezel 44 during assembly. It is the intent however, that any numberof male 110 or female 112 connectors extending from an unlimited numberof locations along the peripheral surface 98 is within the spirit andscope of the present disclosure.

In the illustrated example embodiments of FIGS. 10-14 and 15-18, theconnecting arrangement 86 of the bezel 44 and connecting assembly 100 ofthe housing 46 are located in such a way to facilitate the securing ofthe bezel 44 to the housing 46, and thus, securing the dash cluster 40to the dash panel 12. Advantageously, this securing feature eliminatesthe need for customer specific housing sizes, tooling, or applicationspecific snap wings 26 and 28, making the dash cluster system 40 moreversatile for securing. The interconnection and securing between thebezel 44 and housing 46 is further illustrated in FIGS. 19-22.

Connecting Arrangements 86 of the Bezel 44

In the example embodiment of FIGS. 10 and 13, the male connectors 88alternate with the female connectors 90 about the periphery, and themale connectors 88 include a substantially planer body 114 having arelatively uniform width “W” and thickness “t” in rectangular shapeextending from a distal end 116 that is molded into the rear side 84 ofthe bezel 44 to a proximal end 118. The proximal end 118 includes alatch 120 (FIG. 13) having a riser 122 extending away from the proximalend 118 and body 114 as it approaches the distal end 116. The riser 122terminates at a catch surface 124 that is normal to the body 114.Serrations 126 cover the surface of the riser 122.

In the example embodiment of FIGS. 10-14, the female connectors 90alternate with the male connectors 88 about the periphery. The femaleconnectors 90 include a c-shaped body 130 extending from a proximal end132 to a distal end 134 and is molded into the rear side 84 of the bezel44. The c-shaped body 130 includes an passageway 136 that runs from theproximal to distal ends. The passageway 136 is T-shaped and includes andentryway into the body 130 at the distal end 134 and a slot 138 formedin an inner radial wall 140 of the body 130. The opening 136 furthercomprises relief aperture 142 located at the proximal end 132 of theslot 138 that is a rectangular in shape, slightly larger than the slot,and axially aligned about a slot centerline.

Connecting Assemblies 100 of the Housing 46

Referring now to FIGS. 15-18 and 26, the male connectors 110 of thehousing include a support 160 molded into select peripheral sides 98.The support includes first and second sections, 162 and 164,respectively divided by a cantilever member 166 spaced or suspendedabove and radially outward from the selected peripheral sides 98 from afirst end 168 at a region of the support sections 162, 164 to a secondend 170. The cantilever member 166 includes a uniform section 172 ofconstant thickness and width over half the length of the cantilevermember 166 before the cross-section begins to converge toward the secondend 170 at a tapered region 174. The tapered region 174 includes a latch176 at the second end 170 on an outer side 177 comprising a riser 178 inthe form of an inclined plane extending away from the peripheral side 98as the riser transitions from the second end 170 to the first end 168.The riser 178 terminates at a catch surface 180 that is normal to thebody of the cantilever member 166. Extending from an inner side 182facing the peripheral side 98 of the housing is a guide rail 184. Theguide rail 184 has a rectangular cross-section smaller than the uniformsection 172 and is centrally located below the entire length of theuniform section on the inner side 182. The guide rail 184 extends alonga portion of the inner most portion of the cantilever member 166,forming a clearance gap “G” between the cantilever member and theselected peripheral side 98.

In the example embodiment of FIGS. 15-18 and 23, the female connectors112 alternate with the male connectors 110. The female connectors 112include a c-shaped body 144 extending from one end 146 to a second end148 that is molded into select peripheral sides 98 of the housing 46.The c-shaped body 144 includes an opening 150 that extends between thetwo ends and is bounded along one side with the wall of the peripheralside 98. The opening 150 is T-shaped and includes openings in the body144 that extends between the two ends 146, 148 and includes a slot 152formed along an outer radial wall 154 of the body 144. The opening 150further comprises relief recess 156 that is a rectangular depression inthe peripheral side 98 axially aligned with the slot 152 at the end 148of the c-shaped body 144.

In yet another example embodiment illustrated in FIG. 24, the housings46 includes dual connecting assemblies 100 on a single peripheral side98 of each housing. Each peripheral side 98 comprises a male connector111 and a female connector 113 that are T-shaped and parallel to oneanother. During interconnection of the housings 46 in FIG. 24, the maleand female connectors 111, 113, respectively of each housing engagescorresponding female and male connectors.

Assembly of Dash Cluster System 40

Referring again to the example embodiment of FIGS. 19-21 is theinterconnection and securing of a dash cluster system 40, and morespecifically, between a bezel 44 and a housing 46. In particular, twofirst securing connections 200 are shown. A male connector 110 of thehousing 46 engages a female connector 90 of a bezel 44 until the latch176 of the male connector 110 reaches relief aperture 142 in the femaleconnector 90, foil ling the first securing connection 200. A secondsecuring connection 204 is formed between a male connector 88 of thebezel 44 and female connector 112 of the housing 46, Capacity forforming a third securing or interconnecting connection 202 betweenhousings 46 is available with the remaining female connector 112 shownin FIGS. 19 and 21. Actual securing or interconnection between housings46 is further described above and below and illustrated in FIGS. 7-8,24-25, and 27-28.

The male connector 110 of the housing 46 in reaching the first securingconnection 200 of the bezel 44 travels into the opening 136 of thefemale connector 90 and proceeds to the distal end 132. During thetravel, the male connector 110 remains straight through the assistanceof the guide rail 184 that has a sliding connection with slot 138. Thefirst securing connection 200 is precluded from unintentional releasingas a result of the catch surface 180 extending into and through therelief aperture 142. The sliding engagement of the male connector 110into and through the female connector 90 is further facilitated by thetapered region 174 that is undersized when compared to the opening 136.The first securing connection 200 can be released by a manual activationresulting in a depressing of the latch 176 such that the catch 180 isremoved from the relief aperture 142 while the housing 46 and bezel 44are pulled in opposite directions.

The male connector 88 of the bezel 44 in reaching the second securingconnection 204 of the housing 46 travels into the opening 150 of thefemale connector 112 and proceeds to the connector's proximal end 146.During the travel, the male connector 88 remains straight through thesliding connection and contact of the body 114 with the walls formingthe c-shaped body 144 of the female connector 112. The formation of thesecond securing connection 204 and first securing connections 200 occursimultaneously.

Referring now to FIGS. 27 and 28, an interconnecting engagement or thirdsecuring connection 202 is achieved between two housings 46 inaccordance with another example embodiment of the present disclosure. Inparticular, FIG, 27 is a perspective view of a male connector 110 of afirst housing 46A approaching for interconnection a female connector 112of a second housing 46B. FIG. 28 illustrates a sectional perspectiveview between the two housings 46 once the third securing connection 202is achieved. The third securing connection 202 can occur independentlyor simultaneously with either of the first and second securingconnections 200, 204, respectively.

In the example embodiment of FIGS. 27 and 28, the male connector 110 ofthe first housing 46A in reaching the third securing connection 202 ofthe second housing 46B, travels into the opening 150 of the femaleconnector 112 and proceeds to the distal end 148. During the travel, themale connector 110 remains straight through the assistance of the guiderail 184 that has a sliding connection with slot 152. The third securingconnection 202 is precluded from unintentional releasing as a result ofthe catch surface 180 extending into and through the relief recess 156.The sliding engagement of the male connector 110 into and through thefemale connector 112 is further facilitated by the tapered region 174that is undersized when compared to the opening 150. The third securingconnection 202 can be released by a manual activation resulting in araising of the latch 176 from the distal end and through the reliefrecess 156 such that the catch 180 is removed from the relief recesswhile the first housing 46A and second housing 46B are pulled inopposite directions.

The connecting arrangement 86 of the bezel 44 and connecting assembly100 of the housings 46 are constructed for interconnecting the bezelwith one or more housings, thereby securing the dash cluster 40 to thedash panel 12, using for example, the first and second securingconnections 200 and 204, respectively discussed above. The connectingarrangement 86 of the bezel 44 and connecting assembly 100 of thehousing 46 are also constructed for interconnecting one or more housings46 and/or display modules 42 together, using for example, the thirdsecuring connection 202.

Such interconnecting and securing connections 200, 202, and 204 of thehousings 46 or display modules 42 together through the connectingarrangement 86 and connecting assembly 100, provides flexibility increating a dash cluster 40 with an expansion in two (2) planes, namelythe vertical plane parallel to the Y-axis and horizontal plane parallelto the Z-axis as shown in FIGS. 5-8 and 25. Such interconnecting andsecuring connections 200, 202, and 204 between housings 46 and housings46 and bezels 44, reduces the tooling cost in making unique molds forvarying sized openings, housings, or tooling and the molding requiredfor forming varying sized snap wings 26 and 28 coming from the housingsor parts connected from the rear of the housing used in the prior artfor connecting display modules to dash panels (see FIGS. 2 and 3). Inaddition, the interlocking snap like assembly of the dash cluster system40 formed by using the securing connection 200, 202, and 204advantageously avoids the time, assembly costs, tooling costs andexpenses associated with the tooling and time of sonically welding afaceplate to the housing as discussed in U.S. Pat. No. 7,777,639.

The interlocking snap like assembly of the dash cluster system 40 formedby the securing connections 200, 202, and 204 advantageously provide ascalable product, allowing expansion in two different directions orplanes. Stated another way, the securing connections allow multiplehousings and bezels to be joined to form a dash cluster system 40 ofvarying size to a customer specification without additional toolingcosts. In addition, a single bezel 44 supporting a large single ormultiple faceplates across several housings 46 is now possible throughthe securing connections 200 or 202 or 204, reducing assembly time andcost compared to individual custom display modules.

In yet another example embodiment, the securing connections 200, 202,and 204 provide electronic interconnect capability from housing 46 tohousing 46 or between display modules 42. Such electronic interconnectcapability and the merging of electronics between housings 46 or displaymodules 42 through the securing connection 200, 202, and 204, wouldadvantageously eliminate tooling, and harness costs needed for eachcustom display module as currently required in industry.

Illustrated in FIG. 29 is flowchart depicting a method 300 for securinga display module to a dash panel to form a dash cluster system inaccordance with one example embodiment of the present disclosure. At310, the method 300 comprises the step of providing a bezel with aconnecting arrangement. At 320, the method 300 comprises the step ofproviding a housing with a connecting assembly. At 330, the method 300comprises the step of interlocking the connecting arrangement with theconnecting assembly to form a securing connection.

Illustrated in FIG. 30 is a flowchart depicting a method 400 forsecuring a display module to a dash panel to form a dash cluster systemin accordance with another example embodiment of the present disclosure.At 410, the method 400 comprises the step of providing a first housingwith a first connecting assembly. At 420, the method 400 comprises thestep of providing a second housing with a second connecting assembly. At430, the method 400 comprises the step of interlocking the firstconnecting assembly with the second connecting assembly to form asecuring connection,

FIGS. 31-36 depict a dash cluster system 500 constructed in accordancewith another example embodiment of the present disclosure. Like numberedfeatures shown therein refer to like elements, having like properties,construction, and characteristics of those embodiments described aboveunless otherwise noted or depicted in the illustrations. One particulardifference in the dash cluster system 500 from prior embodiments, thediameter of the housings are less than three (3″) inches, andspecifically are approximately two (2″) inches in diameter. The smallerdiameter housings 46, bezel(s) 44, and the corresponding dash clustersystem 500, result in the new securing connection 208 and 210, asdiscussed below that make the assemblies more flexible for manufacturingand provides a more compact design.

In one example embodiment, the dash cluster system 500 includes a singlebezel 44 that is in contact with three different housings 46 as shown inFIGS. 31 and 32. The single bezel is physically connected to all threehousings 46′, 46 through a connection such as the connection 208 (seeFIG. 35). The three housings 46′, 46 are also interconnected.

The bezel 44 of FIGS. 31-36 includes a display or decal 50 that islocated under a transparent protective cover. The bezel 44 is secured tothe dash 12 by gluing, snap wings, fasteners, or other attachmentmethods. FIGS. 33 and 34 are rear perspective exploded view illustratinghousings 46 separated from the single bezel 44. Connected as a singlecontinuous piece by its integration into the bezel 44 are securingcatches 501. The securing catches 501 project from the inner or rearside of the bezel 44. The securing catches lock at least one housing46′, and in the illustrated example embodiment multiple other housings46 to the bezel 44. This advantageously eliminates the need for multipleconnection holes in the dash and allows for expansion of the displayassemblies 42 from housing to housing without the need for additionalconnections between the housings and bezel.

The bezel 44 in the illustrated example embodiment has two snapassemblies 501, however, other numbers could be used without departingfrom the spirit and scope of the present disclosure. Each snap assembly501 comprises an enclosed u-shaped channel 503 that is deflected over afemale connector 112 of the housing 46 as further illustrated in FIGS.32, 35, 38, and 44-45. To facilitate the deflecting of the snap assembly501 over the female connector 112, the snap assembly is formed from aflexible material of the bezel 44 and includes a ramp 505 (see FIG. 44).The ramp 505 contacts a front edge 506 of the female connector 112 anddeflects the snap assembly 501 up and over the female connector.Deflection occurs until the u-shaped channel 503 reaches a back edge 507of the connector 112, at which time it snaps down into location againstthe surface 508 of the housing 46.

The u-shaped extruded shape of the snap assembly 501 clips all the wayaround the female connector 112. This type of connection between thebezel 44 and housing 46 is possible with a single cluster assembly asillustrated in FIGS. 37-45 or the multiple cluster assembly in FIGS.31-35. In a multiple cluster assembly, such connection is furtherpossible whether it is between a single bezel and one housing that isconnected to several supporting housings or between each housing incontact with one or more bezels.

Referring again to FIGS. 31-36 the dash cluster system 500 isconstructed to include a second securing connection 210 in accordancewith another example embodiment of the present disclosure. Like numberedfeatures shown therein refer to like elements, having like properties,construction, and characteristics of those embodiments described aboveunless otherwise noted or depicted in the illustrations. The secondsecuring connection 210 (see FIG. 35) provides an attachment betweenadjacent housings 46. The second securing connection 210 comprises thehousing's female connector 112, and a corresponding male rail 515 thatis shaped to be received on the inside the of female connector locatedon a separate housing. That is, housings 46 are interconnected byaligning a rail 515 (FIG. 33) with a corresponding female connector 112,and sliding the rail 515 into the recess until the front faces arecoplanar. In one example embodiment, the connection between the femaleconnector 112 and rail 515 includes a press-fit type connection.

Referring now to FIGS. 37-45, a single display assembly 42 is shownhaving snap wings 502 formed as part of, and located along the peripheryof the housing 46. The snap wings 502 as shown in FIGS. 37 and 38 passthrough an opening 80 in the dash panel 12, locking the display assembly42 to the dash panel, One or more housings 46 and display assemblies 42can be attached as described in the embodiments above to the housingshown in FIGS. 37-38 after passing and securing the first displayassembly to the dash. Such connected housings 46 can be attached alongany side of the housing shown, resulting in a linear pattern (asillustrated in the example embodiments of FIGS. 33 and 35), a zig-zagpattern, or any combination at 60 degrees for the housing's hexagonalshape. While the housing 46 is shown as being hexagonal, it should beappreciated that any geometrical shape with any combination of securingconnections for each side can be used without departing from the spiritand scope of the present disclosure.

What have been described above are examples of the present invention. Itis, of course, not possible to describe every conceivable combination ofcomponents or methodologies for purposes of describing the presentinvention, but one of ordinary skill in the art will recognize that manyfurther combinations and permutations of the present invention arepossible. Accordingly, the present invention is intended to embrace allsuch alterations, modifications, and variations that fall within thespirit and scope of the appended claims.

What is claimed is:
 1. A dash cluster for mounting to a support panel ina region of a panel opening that extends through the support panelcomprising: multiple housings for mounting components of said dashcluster behind said support panel, each housing including a firsthousing surface and a connecting assembly having multiple housingconnectors in spaced relation to the first housing surface for securingthe housing in an operative position in relation to the panel; and aplurality of bezels each having a front side and a rear side thatoverlaps the panel opening in use, each bezel further comprisingmultiple connecting arrangements formed from multiple bezel connectorsextending away from said rear side of each bezel for connecting eachbezel to one of said multiple housings; wherein a securing connection isformed between each housing and said bezel by an interlocking of atleast one of said housing connectors with at least one of the bezelconnectors which extends through said opening to fix the housings inoperative position in relation to said panel, wherein the multiplehousings are interconnected along sides of the housings spaced from saidfirst housing surface by interconnecting a pair of the housingconnectors.
 2. The dash cluster of claim 1, wherein the housingcomprises a bounding wall that extends peripherally around a housinginterior having an outer surface from which each housing connectorextends.
 3. The dash cluster of claim 2 wherein at least one of thehousing connectors comprises: a support member that extends away fromthe outer surface of the bounding wall; and an elongated cantilevermember extending from the support member having a latch at a distal endthat defines a male member for coupling engagement with one of the bezelconnectors.
 4. The dash cluster of claim 3 further comprising a guiderail that is attached to the elongated cantilever member.
 5. The dashcluster of claim 2 wherein at least one of the housing connectorscomprises a female receiving body that extends along an outer surface ofthe bounding wall of the housing and includes an opening that extendsalong a length of the body for receipt of one of the male bezelconnectors.
 6. The dash cluster of claim 5 wherein the bounding wall ofthe housing comprises a recess in a region of the female receiving bodyfor mating engagement with the male bezel connector.
 7. The dash clusterof claim 1 wherein each of the housings comprises a bounding wall thatextends peripherally around a housing interior having an outer surfaceand further wherein one of the housing connectors of a first of thehousings includes a male connector extending from the outer surface andone of the housing connectors of a second of the housings has a femaleconnector for engaging the male connector to attach the first and secondhousings.
 8. The dash cluster of claim 1 wherein each of the housingscomprises generally hexagonal bounding walls and wherein one of the sixsides of one bounding wall of a first of the housings includes at leastone of the housing connectors which comprises a male connector forconnecting engagement with a corresponding at least one of the housingconnectors which comprises a female connector supported by one of thesix sides of a second of the housings.
 9. The dash cluster of claim 1wherein at least one of the bezels connectors comprises a femaleconnector having an opening and a slot for guiding said housingconnector, a corresponding number of housing connectors comprising amale connector having distal and proximal ends, the distal endcomprising a catch for interlocking said male connector with said femaleconnector to join the bezels with the housings.
 10. The dash clustersystem of claim 1 wherein at least one of the bezel connectors comprisesa male connector having a latch and a corresponding number of housingconnectors comprises a female connector having a distal and proximalends, the proximal end further comprising a latch for interlocking saidmale connector with said female connector to join the bezels with saidhousings.
 11. The dash cluster arrangement of claim 1 wherein each bezelconnector includes a u-shaped opening and each housing connectorincludes a corresponding u-shaped projection extending from an outerregion of said housing, the u-shaped projection being surrounded by saidu-shaped opening when said bezels are secured to said housings.
 12. Thedash cluster arrangement of claim 11 wherein each bezel connectorfurther comprises a ramp on a leading side of said connector fordeflecting the bezel connector as the bezel connector passes over aleading side of said u-shaped projection during attachment of the bezelsto said housings.
 13. A dash cluster for mounting to a support panel ina region of a panel opening that extends through the support panelcomprising: multiple housings for mounting components of the dashcluster behind the support panel, each housing including a housingsurface facing the support panel and a connecting assembly having atleast one first housing connector spaced from and extending toward thehousing surface and at least one second housing connector positionedalong an outer surface of each housing, one of the first housingconnectors of a first one of the housings interlocking with one of thesecond housing connectors of a second one of the housings to secure thefirst and second housings together; and a plurality of bezels eachhaving a front side facing away from the support panel and a rear sidefacing toward the support panel, a plurality of connecting arrangementsextending from the rear side of the bezel, a securing connection beingformed between each housing and each bezel by an interlocking of atleast one of the first housing connectors on each housing with acorresponding one of the connecting arrangements on one of the bezels,the support panel being clamped between the bezels and the housings whenthe housings are interlocked with the bezels.
 14. The dash cluster ofclaim 13, wherein each first housing connector constitutes acantilevered male connector and each second housing connectorconstitutes a female connector.
 15. The dash cluster of claim 13,wherein the at least one first housing connector comprises a pluralityof male housing connectors and the at least one second housing connectorcomprises a plurality of female housing connectors, the male and femalehousing connectors alternating around the outer surface of the housing.16. The dash cluster of claim 15, wherein the plurality of connectingarrangements on the bezel comprises a plurality of female connectorsthat interlock with the first housing connectors on the housing and aplurality of male connectors that interlock with the second housingconnectors on the housing.
 17. The dash cluster of claim 13, wherein thefirst and second housings are interlocked by a latching connectionbetween the first and second housing connectors.
 18. A dash cluster formounting to a support panel in a region of a panel opening that extendsthrough the support panel comprising: multiple housings for mountingcomponents of the dash cluster behind the support panel, each housingincluding an outer surface, a front surface facing the support panel, aplurality of male connectors extending from the outer surface toward thehousing surface, and a plurality of female connectors extending alongthe outer surface and alternating with the male connectors, the male andfemale connectors of adjacent housings being interlocked to secure thehousings together; and a plurality of bezels each having a front sidefacing away from the support panel and a rear side facing toward thesupport panel, a plurality of male connectors and a plurality of femaleconnectors alternating with the male connectors and extending from therear side of each bezel, a secure connection being formed between eachhousing and the bezels by a latched connection of the male connectors oneach housing with a corresponding number of the female connectors on oneof the bezels and a latched connection of the female connectors on eachhousing with a corresponding number of the male connectors on one of thebezels, a housing-to-housing connection being formed by interconnectingone of the male connectors of a first of the housings with one of thefemale connectors of a second of the housings, the support panel beingclamped between the rear surface of each bezel and the front surface ofeach housing when the housings are interlocked with the bezels.